5 Ways to Make the Most of the Day of Arafah | Blog

The Day of Arafah is a day unlike any other. It is the best day of the year, as emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who said, “The best supplication is the supplication on the Day of Arafah.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 3585) This sacred day provides an unparalleled opportunity for forgiveness, mercy, and spiritual rejuvenation. Here’s how you can make the most of this blessed day.

On the Day of Arafah, the Prophet ﷺ taught us the power of supplication and remembrance. He said, “The best of what I and the prophets before me have said is: ‘There is no deity but Allah alone, He has no partner. To Him belongs all sovereignty and praise, and He has power over all things.’” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 3585) Spend the day in constant du'a (supplication) and dhikr (remembrance), acknowledging Allah's oneness and expressing gratitude for His blessings. This practice not only draws you closer to Allah but also fills your heart with peace and contentment.

The Day of Arafah is a time to remember the covenant we made with Allah. As mentioned in the Qur’an, Allah asked, “Am I not your Lord?” and we all responded, “Yes, we bear witness” (Qur’an 7:172). Reflect on this profound moment and renew your commitment to Allah. Acknowledge your past shortcomings and seek His forgiveness, aiming to strengthen your relationship with your Creator.

Fasting on the Day of Arafah is highly recommended for those not performing Hajj. The Prophet ﷺ said that fasting on this day “expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year.” (Sahih Muslim 1162) Plan your day to include various acts of worship, such as extra prayers, reading Qur’an, and making du’a. The intention to maximize your spiritual gains on this special day is itself a form of worship.

Recognize the immense significance of the Day of Arafah. The Prophet ﷺ highlighted its importance, noting that it is the day Allah boasts to the angels about His servants. Whether you are physically present in Arafah or observing the day elsewhere, know that this is a profound opportunity for divine forgiveness and mercy. As the Prophet ﷺ said, “Allah frees more people from Hellfire on the Day of Arafah than on any other day” (Sahih Muslim 1348).

Use this blessed day to make a significant personal commitment to enhance your spiritual life. Identify one major change you can implement to better adhere to Islamic teachings and write it down as a contract with Allah. Start your day with Fajr in congregation, and spend the day in sincere supplication and reflection. Ask Allah for guidance and strength to fulfill your new commitments. As you renew your covenant with Allah, let this day mark a turning point in your spiritual journey.

The Day of Arafah is a gift from Allah, a chance to wipe away past sins, renew our faith, and draw closer to Him. By engaging in continuous du’a and dhikr, reflecting on our covenant with Allah, fasting, understanding the significance of the day, and making personal spiritual commitments, we can truly make the most of this blessed day. May Allah grant us the ability to observe this day with sincerity and devotion, and may He accept our efforts and forgive our shortcomings. Ameen.